The first minister for suicide prevention has been appointed in the UK

On World Mental Health day, the government has announced a number of plans to drastically reduce the number of people taking their own lives. As part of this effort, Theresa May has appointed a new minister for suicide prevention in what is thought to be a world first.

Jackie Doyle-Price, who is already a junior minister in the Department of Health, will lead the push to cut the number of suicides and reduce the stigma that stops people seeking help, a statement on the new role confirmed.

📢 @theresa_may has appointed the first ever UK Minister for Suicide Prevention.

The Prime Minister has also pledged up to £1.8 million of government funding to help ensure the Samaritans can continue to provide 24-hour free support, and starting in 2019, a 'State of the Nation' report will be released. This new document will be published on every World Mental Health Day going forward to highlight the trends and issues in young people's mental well-being.

Around 4,500 people take their own lives each year in England and suicide remains the leading cause of death for men under 45.

Doyle-Price will work with both the national and local government, experts in suicide and self-harm prevention, charities, clinicians and those personally affected by suicide. She will also ensure every local area has an effective suicide prevention plan in place, and will explore how technology can be used to identify those most at risk.

Speaking about her new role, Doyle-Price said: 'I understand how tragic, devastating and long-lasting the effect of suicide can be on families and communities.

'In my time as health minister I have met many people who have been bereaved by suicide and their stories of pain and loss will stay with me for a long time.

'It's these people who need to be at the heart of what we do and I welcome this opportunity to work closely with them, as well as experts, to oversee a cross-government suicide prevention plan, making their sure their views are always heard.'

The news has been welcomed by CALM, a charity dedicated to preventing male suicide. Earlier this year, the group launched a petition calling for a a suicide prevent minister. It has since gathered almost 400,000 signatures. CALM responded to the news on Twitter, writing: 'Today, we win.'

The Samaritans are open 24 hours a day. They can be contacted in the UK and Ireland on 116 123 or email jo@samaritans.org.